Are South Korea’s East Coast Beaches More Dangerous After Closing? 23 Dead in Three Years

The end of the beach season does not mean the end of danger in the sea along South Korea’s east coast. Instead, it can mark the start of a safety blind spot, as swimmers continue to visit beaches after lifeguards have withdrawn.

Gangwon province said 84 of the 85 beaches opened across six coastal cities and counties had closed by the previous day. Only Ayajin Beach in Goseong remains open, until Sept. 6. The beaches had received 6,993,197 visitors this summer, down 19.1 percent from last year’s 8,643,899.

The Donghae Regional Coast Guard said 81 coastal accidents occurred between Aug. 15 and Sept. 30 after beaches closed during the past three years. Twenty-three people died. Authorities attributed many of the accidents to personal carelessness, including failing to wear life jackets.

A recent incident occurred on Aug. 29 at Geojin Beach in Goseong, where people swimming were swept away by waves. The coast guard rescued them, and two people, including a 38-year-old man, went to hospital. The man reportedly complained of breathing difficulties and a headache.

The coast guard has increased patrols at non-designated beaches, snorkeling spots, informal camping beaches, fishing areas and breakwaters prone to high waves. The Gangneung Coast Guard recorded post-closure coastal accidents rising from three in 2023 to six in 2024 and seven last year. An official urged visitors to avoid entering the water recklessly and always wear life jackets during swimming and water sports.

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At closed beaches, it is difficult to receive immediate help from safety personnel, so please refrain from entering the water recklessly and always wear a life jacket when swimming or taking part in water sports.